text:
Let the people sing
It's time for the congregation to earn a standing ovation from the choir, argues a priest who wants the Mass to be sung by all. Here are a number of suggestions to help them earn their applause.
by Father Alan Phillip, C.P.
Here Is something a pastor will never hear in the back of the church after Mass: "I wish the people around me didn't sing so loud!"
In my many years at many parishes in many places, standing at the altar and facing the people at Mass, I have seldom heard the congregation singing. The people may be singing, but I can't hear them. And I doubt if they can hear one another. What we all hear is the cantor or choir and organist or musicians, whose sound is well amplified throughout the church. Wouldn't it be nice if the people in the congregation heard themselves?
The many singers and musicians I've worked with in my 40 years as a priest have been a delight to know, have dedicated years to music ministry, are very good in their craft, and are people of great faith. Having said that, I have some opinions that may ruffle a few feathers.
I think the time has come to radically rethink the role of the choir, cantor, and musicians at Sunday Mass. I think the time has come for the assembled faithful to claim as their own the role of singing. I think the time has come for those who sit in the pews on Sunday to finally hear each other in full-throated praise of God.
When I am presiding at Mass and the "Our Father" is sung a cappella, the congregation hears me sing the first two words and then I back away from the microphone or simply move my lips. What the people hear is the sound of their own voices in prayerful song. It's beautiful.
The same principle applies to the acclamations and hymns. On occasion I have filled in for a cantor at Mass. The congregation hears me sing the first couple of words of an acclamation or a hymn. Then I back away from the microphone, face the altar, and let them carry on. When they no longer hear my voice, they know that they have to do the singing. And they do. It's a prayerful experience.
The goal here is the "full, conscious, and active" participation of all the assembled people in the ministry of music. This means that all the people in the pews see themselves as "the choir." To achieve this new level of congregational singing at Sunday Mass, I would like to make the following suggestions.
Musical accompaniment should be minimal. An organ, piano, or guitar can give the correct starting note, play under the congregation's voices, and when necessary pick up or slow down the pace. Whatever instruments are used should support congregational singing and not out perform the congregation in volume or style.
If a parish has a trained choir, they could gather together to sing a hymn about five minutes before the start of Sunday Mass. This helps to set a prayerful mood. Then I suggest that they fan out into all sections of the congregation, sitting with family or friends, and assist the congregation in singing from the pews. Because choir members are usually the better singers in a parish, their presence in the pews would bolster the singing of the congregation, and give courage and confidence to the hesitant singers around them.
If a parish chooses to keep the choir and musicians in the front of the church, they should face the ambo and altar and not the congregation. They are gathered together to pray, not perform. They should make every effort not to bring attention to themselves. If a cantor is shuffling pages, or the guitarist is tightening strings, or the music director is walking around whispering instructions, the congregation's eyes shift from the ambo or altar over to the action in the choir area.
As a general rule, a microphone should be used by the cantor only to announce the hymn number or page number, to lead the congregation in the first couple of words of an acclamation or hymn, and then as needed if the congregation starts to drag or go off key. A microphone may also be used by a cantor or choir for singing the verses of the responsorial psalm, the intentions of the prayers of the faithful, and the Communion hymn verses between the people's sung response.
Ideally, the cantor should have an average voice that by its ordinary sound encourages others to sing. When the cantor has an outstanding operatic voice, people in the pews feel inadequate. This shuts them down. Instead they listen with admiration and are wowed by the singer rather than concentrating on the God whose praises are being sung.
It is difficult to carry a hymnal or worship aid when receiving Holy Communion. Hymns at this point of the Mass should be such that the congregation can sing them by heart. Compositions that have a repetitive response are ideal. Another alternative is to have those waiting in the pews sing the words of a hymn while those walking in procession simply hum the melody. Humming can be very prayerful.
A parish grade school provides an ideal setting for teaching new acclamations, responsorial psalms, and hymns throughout the year. Once the children are taught a new song, they should be instructed to bring it home and let their parents hear what they learned. The students in the parish religious education program should also take part in learning new music. The children need to know how important they are in helping the congregation to sing on Sunday.
Most parish congregations at Sunday Mass are made up of a wide variety of ages. That means that the music selected needs to include a wide variety of styles. Some music will appeal to young people, other music is more to the liking of seniors, and still other music will fit the tastes of folk enthusiasts or classical music lovers. If the music selection is all of one style (the favorite music of the director), it will soon bore many who can't relate to it.
It is important that all those in the entrance procession, especially the presiding celebrant, carry a hymnal or worship aid. This action proclaims by example that singing by everyone is important. Obviously the lector carrying the Book of the Gospels and acolytes carrying the cross or candles can't also carry a hymnal during the procession. But once they are situated in the sanctuary, they should give good example by opening a hymnal and singing.
In churches that are long and narrow, I recommend that people turn and face the center aisle for the gathering hymn. This way they can see the faces and hear the voices of those gathered across the aisle and get the feeling of being united in community.
A lot of liturgical music seems to be written for altos and sopranos, whose range is beyond the reach of ordinary voices. We basses would be very grateful if parish music ministers consider lowering musical selections at least a half-note.
Finally, a parish could schedule one or more concerts during the year. Advent and Lent would be ideal times. The Catholic Church has a rich heritage of sacred music that requires extended instrumentation and orchestration, along with intricate sung harmonies. A concert-not the Eucharist-is the place for singers and musicians to perform.
After Mass, in the back of church, people sometimes say to me, "Nice homily, Father." When they say that, I feel good. If they say, "Something you said really struck me," I feel a little better. That means their focus was not on me but on the content of the homily. But what I really like to hear people say is, "I really felt close to God this morning." Or "That was a beautiful Mass." This means that all of us in leadership roles along with all the gathered assembly did our part well, and God was praised and glorified.
The church was clean and tastefully decorated. Everyone was friendly, especially to visitors. The ushers were efficient and helpful. The acolytes handled their duties capably. The lectors were well prepared. The homily was meaningful. The eucharistic ministers were reverent. And music filled all four corners of the church. When all carry out their role to the best of their ability, the attention goes to God, not us.
After Mass a congregation often claps for the singers and musicians. It seems out of place to me that people clap at Mass because of how well the singers sang, the homilist homilized, or the servers served. We are all unworthy servants of the Lord, on whom all our attention should be focused when we are in church. People should leave church clapping with all their might for everything God has done, is doing, and will do for them.
Having said that, I would make one exception. I would like to see the day when the priest, the lectors, the eucharistic ministers, the musicians and singers all face the congregation at the end of Mass and clap for how well they, the assembled faithful, sang and participated.
Each month, advance copies of Sounding Board & Feedback are mailed to a representative sample of U.S. Catholic subscribers. Their answers to questions about Sounding Board & Feedback-along with a balanced selection of their comments about the article as a whole-eventually appear in the pages of U.S. Catholic magazine.


text:
The Toyota Highlander is a midsize SUV that's smooth and quiet underway, with a versatile cabin that seats seven. Highlander is a crossover SUV, meaning it's built more like a car than a truck, while feeling nice and big like a truck SUV. It's based on the platform of the Toyota Camry midsize sedan.
All Highlanders were extensively revised for 2011, with freshened styling and upgraded audio and safety systems. There are no additional changes to the 2012 Highlander.
The 2012 Highlander comes with a choice of powerplants. The base 2.7-liter four-cylinder makes 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, and delivers EPA fuel economy ratings of 20/25 mpg City/Highway. It's matched with a 6-speed electronically controlled automatic overdrive transmission, and is available only with two-wheel drive.
The optional 3.5-liter V6 is extremely smooth and delivers 270 horsepower and 248 pound-feet of torque. Also smooth is its 5-speed automatic transmission, which downshifts seamlessly to provide ample punch for passing. Front-wheel-drive Highlanders with the 3.5-liter V6 are EPA-rated at 18/24 mpg City/Highway; Highlander AWD (all-wheel drive) models are rated slightly lower at 17/22 mpg, which is about what we got in the AWD V6 we drove, including a 300-mile freeway run.
There's also a Highlander Hybrid, whose gas/electric powertrain uses three electric motors: One to drive each axle, for AWD, and a third to regulate the electronically controlled continuously variable transmission (ECVT). The Highlander Hybrid's gasoline engine is essentially the same 3.5 liter V6, but with port, rather than direct, fuel injection and milder tuning producing 231 horsepower and 215 pound-feet of torque. But add in the additional punch of the electric motors, and the total system horsepower is 280. EPA estimated fuel economy is 28 mpg, city or highway. Unfortunately, we found it difficult to achieve that during our winter test drive using power accessories full blast.
Highlander offers a quiet cabin and a comfortable ride, while being a pleasant way to carry a group of people, with generous space for passengers and cargo. A versatile cabin adds to its attractiveness as a family vehicle. The second row can slide forward and back, and the third-row seat is good for children and capable of carrying adults. Getting in and out of the first two rows is easy, and Toyota provides both a walk-through and a fold-and-slide-forward second-row seat to ease access to the third row.
The 2012 Toyota Highlander offers a choice of three powertrains, three trim levels and front or all-wheel drive. The base Highlander comes with the 2.7-liter four-cylinder engine ($28,090) or a 3.5-liter V6 ($29,245). Highlander SE also comes with either the four-cylinder ($32,695) or 3.5-liter V6 ($33,850). Highlander Limited ($35,595) comes standard with the V6. All of these models are front-wheel drive.
All-wheel-drive models all have the 3.5-liter V6, and are available in base ($30,695), SE ($35,300), and Limited ($37,045) trim. Highlander Hybrid models come standard with all-wheel drive and are available in base ($38,140) and Limited ($43,795) trim only.
Highlander comes standard with air conditioning; cloth upholstery; 40/20/40 second-row seat with a removable center section that can be stowed under the first-row center console; 50/50 third-row seating with rear climate control; AM/FM/CD with six speakers, MP3/WMA playback, and an auxiliary input jack; power windows, door locks, folding mirrors and remote keyless entry; cruise control; variable intermittent wipers front and rear; rear defogger; rear spoiler; tilt/telescope steering wheel; two front and one cargo-area 12-volt power outlets; daytime running lights; and 245/65R17 tires on alloy wheels.
Hybrid models add fog lights; and a 3.5-inch multifunction display screen that includes a rear backup camera, a clock, tire-pressure display, air conditioning readout, and outside temperature and trip computer information, in addition to all the hybrid-related features.
Highlander SE also adds fog lights and a 3.5-inch multifunction display screen, plus leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio and display controls; leather seats with heat for the front row; power tilt/slide moonroof; SiriusXM satellite radio, USB port, and other audio upgrades; Homelink universal transceiver; opening glass in the rear hatch; rear tonneau cover; a lever in the cargo area to fold the second-row seats; lighted vanity mirrors; visor extenders; second-row reading lights; heated outside mirrors: and a power liftgate.
Highlander Limited models upgrade with tri-zone automatic climate control; 10-way power driver's seat; four-way power front passenger's seat; Smart Entry; and interior wood trim. The Limited models are distinguished with more chrome and bright trim than other models, and bold 19-inch, five-spoke alloy wheels wearing 245/55R19 tires. Hybrid Limited models come with the same features as the Limited.
The Tech Package ($1835) for base models includes most of the electronic and convenience features from the SE, but skips the leather upholstery and moonroof. A Leather Package ($2305) for the base Hybrid adds leather, the moonroof, and a few additional conveniences. The base Hybrid can also be fitted with 19-inch alloy wheels ($1020). A Cold Weather Package ($60) for either base model adds heated exterior mirrors and a windshield wiper de-icer. A power liftgate ($400) is also available. Hybrid, SE, and Limited models can be ordered with voice-activated navigation ($2650). Hybrids, Limiteds, and Hybrid Limiteds can add rear-seat DVD entertainment, or a premium JBL stereo ($650). Tow packages are available ($200).
Safety features on all models include dual front airbags, front side-impact airbags for thorax protection, head-protecting curtain side airbags that cover all three seating rows, a driver's knee airbag, active front headrests, daytime running lights, tire-pressure monitor, antilock brakes, traction control, antiskid control, and hill-start assist. Smart Stop automatically reduces engine power when the brake and accelerator pedals are applied simultaneously. Downhill assist control is standard on AWD models.
The Toyota Highlander is in the heart of the midsize crossover SUV market, and is about the same size as the Honda Pilot. Highlander's 95.4 cubic feet of cargo room is more than all but a handful of competitors in the popular midsize class.
The Highlander fits in the middle of Toyota's four-pronged midsize SUV lineup. It features softer styling than the 4Runner midsize SUV and the retro-styled FJ Cruiser. Truck-based platforms, rugged suspensions and low-range transfer cases make 4Runner and FJ Cruiser highly capable off road. The Highlander is based on the same architecture as that of the Camry and Avalon sedans. Highlander's all-wheel-drive systems are designed for taming slippery pavement and wintry conditions, not for climbing rocks and traversing rough terrain. Likewise, the Toyota Venza is a mid-size vehicle that further blurs the line between wagon and SUV. Also based on the Camry platform, the Venza is even more carlike than the Highlander.
The design of the Highlander is clean, and accented on each side by a character line that leads into pronounced wheel arches. The look is more SUV than station wagon, and the available 19-inch alloy wheels add to the muscular stance.
The Hybrid has its own grille and front bumper fascia: Dominated by horizontal slots, it looks high-tech, maybe even a little futuristic; while the standard Highlander front end prominently features a more truck-traditional, six-sided grille. Both grilles are plastic, as they almost all are nowadays, but the Highlander grilles are clearly so. The foglamps on the SE and Limited have odd silver eyebrows that seem reversed, as they travel toward the center of the car. Makes you want to swap the lights from left to right. Hybrids make the "eyebrows" less obvious by having them sweep from the bottom of the lamps; and by tucking the entire foglamp assembly inside a vertical nacelle.
The Highlander has a quality, upscale cabin. The seating position is way up high, and forward visibility excellent, without losing the corners of the car. The seats are comfortable on three-hour trips, but they're pretty flat and could use more body contour.
Fit and finish are excellent and the design is attractive. There are more hard plastic finishes than in a Lexus, but those plastics are nicely grained and assembled with care.
The secondary controls are easy to spot, and they move with precision. A 3.5-inch multi-function screen at top center on the dash displays the trip computer and climate control information; it's optional on the base model and standard on all others. This same screen displays the image from the rear backup camera whenever you shift into reverse. It's the smallest rearview camera screen we've ever seen, except for those tiny ones in the rearview mirror. We watched it carefully as we backed toward a chain-link fence around a driveway one dark night, and if we hadn't stopped and looked over our shoulder to double-check, we would have backed into the fence even with the rearview camera.
With the optional navigation system, the camera is projected onto the larger navigation screen, making the image much easier to see. This is a proper rearview camera. This screen also displays some of the audio controls, adding an extra step or two when changing stations, and adding distraction. The voice navigation messed up big time, when we used it. It misguided us past an easy freeway interchange we knew by heart. And it repeatedly and annoyingly interrupted our radio listening, to warn of traffic delays ahead that didn't exist. Overall, however, the Toyota navigation system works better than most.
Highlander Hybrid models have some exclusive interior touches. The gauges are trimmed in a soothing blue instead of raspy red, and a power meter replaces the tachometer. Displayed either on the small multifunction screen or the navigation screen are Consumption and Energy Monitor information. The Consumption screen displays fuel economy in real time and five-minute increments, and the Energy Monitor screen employs a schematic to show when the gas engine and electric motors are in use. It may be fun to watch these screens, but be careful because they can distract attention from the road.
The elevated ride height and upright seating position give Highlander that desirable SUV trait but with easier step-in than older, truck-based SUVs.
The front seats are comfortable, and visibility is good to all corners. Head and leg room are generous in the first and second rows.
Second-row captain's chairs are comfortable, and the Highlander has a handy removable center seat that can be replaced by a center console. The area between the second-row seats can also be left open to provide a walkthrough to the standard third row. Either the center console or the center seat can be stowed beneath the front seat center console.
Third-row seating is aided by second-row seats that can slide forward. Adults can fit, but the seat cushion is set low, so it's still not ideal for long trips. Access to the third row is easy from the passenger's side, as the second row captain's chair flips and slides forward in one motion. The driver's side chair folds flat, but doesn't slide forward far enough to allow passengers to walk through.
For cargo space, the second- and third-row seats fold flat to open up a very useful 95.4 cubic feet. Tethers and levers are provided in the cargo area to make folding and unfolding the seats a breeze. The available separate opening rear glass is a nice convenience, and the load height is low for an SUV, making it easier to load groceries, duffle bags, and other cargo. Cup holders abound, with 10 cup holders scattered throughout the cabin, with bottle holders in the doors. There's plenty of storage for small items.
The Toyota Highlander is a pleasant vehicle to drive. Most notable is the ride quality, which is luxurious or soft, depending on your viewpoint. Even with the available 19-inch wheels, the suspension smoothes all but the most jarring bumps. There is a bit of unwanted float on highways and on winding roads, though, and some folks find it too soft. Hybrids have slightly more road feel, but are still quite comfortable, making them a better choice for those who find the standard suspension too soft.
The suspension emphasizes a soft ride over taut handling. All models lean when cornering and braking. Steering feel is light, but the response is somewhat slow. We would not describe the Highlander as nimble. The Nissan Murano offers better handling. Traction control and electronic stability control come standard on the Highlander.
The 3.5-liter V6 propels the Highlander front-wheel-drive models from 0 to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, 7.8 seconds with all-wheel drive. A manual shift gate allows choosing the gear you want. From inside the cabin, the V6 can barely be heard, emitting only a refined growl under hard acceleration. In all models, wind noise is well-checked, and the only notable interior noise is some tire hum on rough pavement.
The all-wheel-drive system in the gas models provides a full-time 50/50 front/rear torque split. In Hybrid models, the AWD system is front-drive biased, but when it detects slippage, the rear-mounted electric motor can kick in to deliver up to 25 percent of the available power to the rear wheels. Both systems will help you get the kids to school on snowy days, and we did just that.
We tested a Highlander in the Pacific Northwest in the middle of the winter. We drove around for two days on icy roads with our Hybrid, and it performed brilliantly, both to provide traction and to stop the vehicle safely. We tackled steep icy hills and the all-wheel-drive did its thing to keep moving the car forward without noticeable slipping. We charged down those icy hills and floored the brake pedal, and the ABS stopped the Highlander as quickly as possible. We tested the steering during ABS braking by making S turns while it was sliding on the ice. The Highlander's control was perfect.
One of our test vehicles was fitted with Toyo A20 Open Country all-season tires, P245/55R19, not even snow tires, wrapped around handsome 10-spoke 19-inch alloy wheels. We recommend winter tires for the best traction on snow.
We hung it out in icy curves (at relatively slow speeds), and the stability control kept the Highlander true to its intended path. What a wonderful feeling of security on those icy roads: whether accelerating uphill, hard braking, or around curves, the Highlander covered us.
We also drove a V6 Highlander Limited, on the same icy roads a few days later, and it too took everything in stride. It used similar 19-inch Bridgestone tires, the Dueler H/L brand, not the winter Blizzak tires. The anti-lock brakes in the Limited were rougher than on the Hybrid, with more noise and pedal vibration. At one point sliding down a steep icy hill at 3-4 mph, ABS fully engaged, we tried to steer away from the snow-covered ditch at the side of the road, but the front wheels continued to slide and not steer; apparently there is a limit, when they say you can steer with ABS engaged. So we tapped the DAC button by the shift lever, and Downhill Assist Control kicked in. It's standard equipment on AWD models. We totally took our feet off the pedals, the steering in the front wheels came back, and we maintained that safe crawl to the bottom of the icy hill. Look Ma, no feet.
The Hybrid powertrain, called Hybrid Synergy Drive, mates a 3.5-liter V6 with three electric motors for a total of 280 horsepower. The powertrain is a little rougher than the standard V6 but is still quite refined. The transmission is a continuously variable automatic that constantly adjusts gearing ratios instead of changing gears.
Like all hybrids, when you first turn the key, nothing seems to happen. But it is ready and operational. The gas engine just doesn't start until it's needed. However for us it was needed virtually all the time. We drove our Hybrid around town in cold weather for a week, and the gas engine was needed to power the accessories. Stopped at a red light, at the drive-through window at the bank, anywhere: the gas engine kept running. We averaged 18.2 miles per gallon for that week, rarely reaching 35 mph. If the EPA gets 28 mpg in the city, their city must include a lot of 25-mph zones with no stoplights.
Under the right conditions (full battery charge, warm day, not using heat or air conditioning), you can press the EV button and drive the Hybrid up to two miles at less than 25 mph on electric power only. For example, looking for a parking space at the mall. The Highlander Hybrid is the first Toyota hybrid to offer an EV button in the U.S. We suggest using it around town, more than we apparently should have.
The continuously variable transmission feels natural. It has a standard drive mode, which allows the Hybrid to freewheel down hills, as well as a B mode, which uses more engine compression to slow the vehicle when the driver's foot is off the throttle, while recharging the battery pack more aggressively.
The Toyota Highlander offers generous room for people and cargo, a choice of powertrains, ample performance and decent fuel mileage. The V6 engine with 5-speed automatic transmission is extremely smooth, and with fuel mileage nearly as good as the four-cylinder at a price only $1155 more, it's good value. The Hybrid model offers a proven powertrain with increased fuel mileage and lower emissions. With Toyota's reputation for reliability and resale value, the Highlander makes sense for active families.
Sam Moses reported from Oregon's Columbia River Gorge; Kirk Bell reported from Chicago.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Meetings Made Easy at Sheraton Birmingham Hotel
At the Sheraton Birmingham Hotel, we don't believe in small victories. We believe in big success and empowering meeting planners with the dedicated support needed to reach their goals. Effortlessly.
Plan your next meeting with 10-100 attendees for meetings booked by December 31, 2015 and held by December 31, 2016 and we'll make it easy on you with:
- Effortless contracting with a simple 2-page contract.
- FREE meeting room WiFi for your attendees to stay connected.
- Dedicated event support. No matter the size.
- We'll make every detail right. That's our commitment to you.
To inquire about hosting an upcoming meeting, call us at 205-307-3047 or email us and reference our Meetings Made Easy offer.


text:
I finally overcame my fear of making caramel, when I made Salted Butter Caramel Ice Cream, and now I made my own caramel ice cream topping. Since then, I've made different variations of Caramel Flan and Panna Cotta.
Milky Way Bars are the candies that I would barter from my son, when he'd deposit his heavy bag of Halloween Goodies. I prefer milk chocolate, over dark, and caramel and that light creamy nougat-- I have loved them for as long as I can remember. I stumbled across a photo of Milky Way Brownie Cups, and I became obsessed with wanting to make them.
I am really excited to share this recipe with you. While the concept of the recipe isn't new (just google "Milky Way Brownie Bites), I did what the judges on American Idol often say-- "I made
them my own" by making the brownies, from scratch--thanks to King Arthur Flour If you only buy
boxed brownie mix, I can promise you that you will never do that again. This recipe is truly the best I've ever made (and I've made my fair share). The brownies bake with a fudgy center, and crispy edges. In my book, that is the "Ultimate Brownie". Best of all, they take minutes to make because you use melted butter, eggs, sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder a pinch of salt-- and vanilla. You don't need a mixer, because a whisk will do the job nicely.
Mini Muffin Pan. Because I'm such a kitchen gadget Queen, I have this set of scoops-- and I use them all the time, because they are such a time saver and I can make all of my baked goods to be the same size.
The brownie bites baked in just under 15 minutes-- until a toothpick inserted left a little bit of attached crumb. Don't over bake them!
tamper, to gently press an indentation (I dampen it with water, to prevent too much sticking). I let the brownie cups to cool completely.
NOTE: The brownies were so good, that I quickly made a second batch in a regular brownie pan. Partly, because my son loved his sample, of a broken brownie cup, that I feared he'd get into the rest. You can stop right here, if you want. Trust me, you don't need any other recipe.
Philadelphia Cream Indulgence (a fairly new product). At the time I bought them, I had no idea how I would use them. Perfect!
If you think that you're clumsy with piping bags, I can assure you that they are very easy to work with. I have re-usable piping bags, but I want to show you a very easy piping bag trick. For that I'll need to use a clear bag. FOR THE RECORD: I'm still awkward and clumsy at using the folded parchment paper trick. So, you need a piping bag and coupler (inexpensive tools, that I buy at a Michael's Craft Store. Cut the tip off so that the coupler can fit just to the edge, then place the piping tip inside the bag.. Attach the "ring" on the outside and you're ready for frosting. The most common way to fill the piping bag is to fold it into a cuff, place it into a glass and fill it. Ah! Try this-- place a cup or two of frosting onto plastic wrap.
Why do it this way? When you're finished frosting, you can slide the leftover frosting right out, and your piping bag is virtually clean! Easy.
I always post a printable recipe card at the end of each recipe post. If you cannot view it, you might be using an older version of InternetExplorer. You should be able to view my recipe cards with Safari, Mozilla, Google Chrome and Internet Explorer. If you still can't view the recipe card, all of my recipes are stored on Key Ingredient, by clicking here. If you still can't figure out how to view the printable recipe card, please email me at firstname.lastname@example.com and I am happy to help.


text:
Lab 3: Concurrency and Temporal Planning
Any updates or changes we make in the lab instructions during the course will be announced here.
We will now consider centralized planning for multiple agents by introducing multiple helicopters in the UAV domain.
Lab 3.1: Using Sequential Planners for Multiple Agents
When multiple agents are available, we generally have opportunities to take advantage of concurrent execution. For example, if we have more than one UAV, we can deliver many crates in parallel.
How do we generate suitable plans for such a scenario? One method would be to simply use a sequential planner as we did before, and then extract "subplans" for each agent with suitable constraints on execution order. For example, if the plan states that uav1 and uav2 deliver two crates in sequence, these actions are in fact independent of each other and can be executed in parallel.
You should do the following:
- Generate a small set of problem instances that use at least four UAVs.
- Run these instances through a variety of sequential satisficing planners.
- For the report: Which sequential planners generate plans that actually make use of all agents? Does it seem like there would be room for improvement?
Lab 3.2: Introduction to Temporal Concurrent Planning
As you probably noticed in lab 3.1, sequential planners do not always generate plans that make good use of all available agents. The main reason is that they have no reason to do this: They are completely unaware that some parameters represent distinct agents, and given the formal model that is used, the only way of measuring plan quality is by using action costs. These costs may be identical regardless of whether actions are performed by a single agent or spread out across different agents!
We can often get considerably better results when using a planner that can deal with concurrency directly. We will illustrate how this is done using a simple example domain.
Concurrency in the Simple Rover Domain
Suppose that a Mars rover can drive around on the surface and can send scientific data to an orbiter. Suppose also that due to power constraints, the rover cannot both drive and send data at the same time. Our first partial model of this domain might use the following two operators:
(define (domain simplerover) (:requirements :typing) (:types rover location data) (:predicates (at ?rover - rover ?location - location) (acquired ?rover - rover ?d - data) (sent ?d - data) (path-between ?a ?b - location)) (:action drive :parameters (?r - rover ?from ?to - location) :precondition (and (at ?r ?from) (path-between ?from ?to)) :effect (and (not (at ?r ?from)) (at ?r ?to))) (:action send :parameters (?r - rover ?d - data) :precondition (and (acquired ?r ?d)) :effect (sent ?d)) )
Now, suppose that we are in a state where the facts (at rover loc3), (path-between loc3 loc7), (acquired rover data3) are true. Then the following actions will be applicable in the current state:
(drive rover loc3 loc7) (send data3)
A sequential planner by definition uses a plan structure that does not allow two actions to be executed at the same time, so there is no need for us to explicitly tell the planner when concurrency is possible in the "real world". The constraint we have, that one does not drive while transmitting data, will automatically be satisfied by any sequential plan.
But according to their definitions, the actions above are completely compatible with each other – for example, driving and sending never has conflicting effects, which would prevent them from being executed concurrently according to the PDDL semantics. Therefore, a concurrent planner may generate a plan where the rover drives to loc7 and sends data3 at the same time. But such a plan would violate our rovers' energy constraints.
That a concurrent planner may create such a plan is not a fault in the planner. Our model of the world was perhaps sufficient under the assumption of sequential plans, but when we create domains for concurrent planning, we must be more careful to consider potential parallelism and to tell the planner about any limits on concurrency, which we didn't do in the original domain specification. This is in principle no different from the fact that we had to be careful to specify all preconditions of an operator, even for sequential planning.
Such information may also be necessary to prevent a rover from driving to many destinations at the same time, to prevent picking up more than one block at the same time in the blocks world, or for similar purposes.
Preventing Concurrency
How one models limits on concurrency differs between modeling languages. Some languages use an explicit model of resource constraints and mutual exclusion conditions, which leads to slightly more work in defining a planning domain but can also provide a very clear and flexible model of concurrency. PDDL instead provides a temporal model where each action has a specific duration and can have effects both at the beginning and at the end of the action. Note that this model goes beyond the restricted state transition system that was used in sequential planning.
As a first step, we might change our model as follows. The changes are discussed below.
(define (domain simplerover2) (:requirements :typing :durative-actions) (:types rover location data - object) (:predicates (at ?rover - rover ?location - location) (acquired ?rover - rover ?d - data) (sent ?d - data) (path-between ?a ?u - location)) (:durative-action drive :parameters (?r - rover ?from ?to - location) :duration (= ?duration 10) :condition (and (at start (at ?r ?from)) (over all (path-between ?from ?to))) :effect (and (at start (not (at ?r ?from))) (at end (at ?r ?to)))) (:durative-action send :parameters (?r - rover ?d - data ?loc - location) :duration (= ?duration 2) :condition (and (over all (acquired ?r ?d)) (over all (at ?r ?loc))) :effect (at end (sent ?d))) )
Now let's take a look at the changes that we made.
- We specified that we need durative actions (actions that take place over an interval of time rather than "instantaneously").
- We changed :action to :durative-action and specified a constant duration for each action. Durations can also be defined in terms of numeric functions, such as the fly-cost function that was previously used for action costs.
We now need to describe when a certain condition should hold
during the execution of an action. Preconditions have therefore been
generalized to conditions.
- To drive from a location, you must be there at the start of the action, and the path must exist throughout the action.
- If you send data, it must remain acquired throughout the action. We also require that the rover is in a certain location (a new condition associated with a new parameter). We don't have any real requirements on which locations are possible, but simply say that you are there (wherever that is) throughout the execution of the action. This ensures that the rover does not drive and send data at the same time.
The drive action now removes the fact that the rover is at ?from at the start of the action, but waits until the end of the action until it adds the fact that it has arrived at ?to. This seems quite intuitive given the nature of driving.
Note that this change also ensures that the rover cannot drive to two locations at the same time. The first drive action that one applies will immediately (at start) delete the fact that the rover is somewhere. In effect, the rover is "nowhere at all". You can only drive if you are somewhere, so the second drive action can only be applied after the first drive action has ended and (at ?r ?to) has been added.
- Similarly, sending data has an effect at the end of the action.
Given this domain, the planner is still allowed to generate actions that send more than one piece of data at the same time, which should not be possible since in reality each piece of data requires its own time slot.
Generating Plans for the Rovers Domain
In this exercise you should extend the domain specification above to ensure that the rover never sends more than one piece of data at a time. This may require modifications to various parts of the domain above. Since we are not interested in driving at the moment, you may begin by using the following simple problem instance with only a single location:
(define (problem rover1) (:domain simplerover2) (:objects d1 d2 d3 d4 d5 d6 d7 d8 - data r1 - rover loc1 - location) (:init (acquired r1 d1) (acquired r1 d2) (acquired r1 d3) (acquired r1 d4) (acquired r1 d5) (acquired r1 d6) (at r1 loc1)) (:goal (and (sent d1) (sent d2) (sent d3) (sent d4) (sent d5) (sent d6))) )
Use several temporal satisficing planners to verify that reasonable plans are generated. Describe in your report how you ensured that rovers do not send multiple pieces of data at any given time.
Lab 3.3: Concurrency in Emergency Services Logistics
Your second task in this lab is to extend the UAV logistics domain for concurrency with the use of multiple helicopters:
- Add multiple helicopters to your problem instances.
- Convert your domain to use durative actions. Among other things, this converting action costs to durations (action costs are not supported by the temporal planners we have available, which is not a problem since we only used them to model time requirements).
- Ensure that actions are only performed in parallel when this would be possible in reality. For example, a helicopter cannot pick up several crates at the same time, or pick up a crate and fly to a destination at the same time.
- Use several temporal satisficing planners and investigate their performance. How large problems can be solved in one minute? How are the planners affected when you vary different parameters, such as the number of UAVs or the number of crates?
Lab 3.4: Ground Robots in Emergency Services Logistics
Up to now, helicopters have been responsible for loading crates onto carriers. In reality we would most likely be using ground robots for this, while helicopters might still unload crates at their destinations. You should extend the domain in this way, thereby providing additional opportunities for concurrent execution of actions.
- Add ground robots.
- Make sure ground robots can load crates onto carriers under the
following constraints.
- The robot must be at the same location as the carrier and the crate (so depending on your model, the robot may also have to be able to "drive" between locations).
- Loading a crate onto a carrier involves at least two actions: Picking up the crate and placing it on the carrier.
- You may allow several robots to place a crate onto a carrier concurrently. If this leads to problems with your domain formulation, explain why (in your lab report) ensure that only one robot can place a crate onto a given carrier at any given time.
- However, a robot can't load a carrier while a helicopter is carrying it.
- Extend your problem instances with the required information and test the domain with some different proportions between helicopters, carriers, crates and ground robots.
Finishing and handing in the results
When you have finished the lab, you should once again ask a lab assistant to take a look at your final domain to briefly check whether the model you developed appears reasonable.
When you hand in your results:
- Create a single ZIP file, named fffll111-fffll222-lab3.zip where fffll111 and fffll222 are your login names (assuming you are working in pairs).
- The ZIP file should contain in all domain files, problem files and problem generators you have created or modified, clearly named. It should also contain the report as a simple text file or as a PDF document (no Word or OpenOffice documents, please).
- Send the ZIP file by e-mail to Mikael Nilsson.
Page responsible: Jonas Kvarnström
Last updated: 2017-03-21


text:
Cart Contains 0 items
Cards we accept: Visa, Delta, Mastercard, Solo, Switch, Visa Electron and Maestro
Welcome to the Coda Music Indie product section. Here are the products in Indie. To buy Indie please click the 'Buy' button. When your happy with your choice of Indie you may checkout using our secure payment gateway.


text:
Resilience: that ability to bounce back from adversity. It is what allows you to recover from change or hardship, whether in the workplace or life in general.
As a leader, you can change your views, habits, and responses by modifying your thoughts and actions, which will help broaden your outlook and become less narrowly focused – and more able to adapt to change.
To become more resilient, center on these 8areas:
1. Accept change. Find ways to become more comfortable with change. Change is constant and inevitable, and you can be successful if you accept it rather than resist it.
2. Become a continuous learner. Learn new skills, gain new understandings, and apply them during times of change. Do not hold onto old behaviors and skills, especially when it's obvious that they don't work anymore.
3. Take charge. Embrace self-empowerment. Take charge of your own career and your own development. Don't expect someone else to guide the way.
4. Find your sense of purpose. Develop a "personal why" that gives your work meaning or helps you put it into a larger context. A clear sense of purpose helps you to assess setbacks within the framework of a broader perspective.
5. Pay attention to self-identity. Form your identity apart from your job. A job is just one facet of your identity, and a career is just one aspect of your life. Separate who you are from what you do.
6. Cultivate relationships. Develop and nurture a broad network of personal and professional relationships. Personal relationships create a strong base of support — a critical element in achieving goals, dealing with hardships and developing perspective.
7. Reflect. Whether you're riding a success or enduring a hardship, make time for reflection. Reflection fosters learning, new perspectives, and a degree of self-awareness that can enhance your resiliency.
8. Skill shift. Question (and even change) your definition of yourself or your career. Reframe how you see your skills, talents, and interests. By casting your skills in a new light, you can see how they might shift into new patterns of work and behavior.
[This post originally published Aug. 9, 2012.]
We've updated our Privacy Notice. Take a moment to review it here.
We've updated our Privacy Notice. Take a moment to review it here.
Type to Search
Not bazinga...
As it was with season 10,
Angara PrincessCut Enhanced Blue Diamond Love Knot Pendant 0v7oSfX
's future is up in the air as we head into season 12 , which could mark the end of CBS's hit sitcom.
Showrunner Steve Holland is certainly working on the assumption that the
Angara Ruby and Diamond Tilted Heart Pendant rSPqGlT
and not assuming that CBS will renew it for season 13. "We're not leaving anything on the table in season 12," he promised. "If there are stories we want to do, we will put them out there and see what happens."
It echoed something he previously told
Digital Spy
as he was
Angara Ruby and Diamond Tilted Heart Pendant B9bGBtaeO
"There's certainly stories that we still want to tell that we haven't told yet, and who knows what'll happen after season 12, so season 12 might be a nice chance to tell them," he outlined.
The season 11 finale featured a major moment of its own as Sheldon (Jim Parsons) and Amy (Mayim Bialik) finally tied the knot , with none other than Star Wars ' Mark Hamill on hand as the wedding officiant. We can't exactly see the show going through a bleak divorce subplot for the two, so the worry is that whatever the writers come up with won't be as noteworthy as the wedding, at least not for Sheldon and Amy.
If you're a dog owner you know it's perfectly normal for your pup to chew on things and be protective of his or her territory. When normal chewing — on things you give the approval seal to — turns into destructive behavior, however, you're talking about a while different ball of wax. If you have a destructive , you might be in for some expensive repairs for things like furniture, shoes, doors, and carpet.
According to
The Telegraph
, Esure Pet Insurance interviewed 3,000
Ashley Pittman Upendo Light Horn Teardrop Earrings gqMeF
regarding items they had to repair or replace because their canines destroyed them. Of the 3,000 interviewed, almost two-thirds had to shell out for their animal's destruction. Keep reading to find out what breeds are most destructive — and what each cost interviewees on average over the dog's lifetime.
Don't leave your great Dane home alone. | dmussman/iStock/Getty Images
Average lifetime destruction bill: $925.94Average lifetime destruction bill:
Great Danes are among the largest
breeds of dogs
, and although they're known for being gentle giants with people, they do have a destructive side. According to the website
Fine Jewelry Childrens 14K Gold Cubic Zirconia Cluster Ball Stud Earrings Ifnv7yw4SB
, Great Danes do not like being left alone — that's when they get into trouble and start chewing. And don't forget that a Great Dane's size alone makes him or her like a bull in a china shop.
Next: Small, but fierce
Chihuahua's need careful training like any other breed. | thisislover/iStock/Getty Images
Average lifetime destruction bill: $882.76
These tiny dogs are hella chewers, according to ChihuahuaWardrobe.com . Rugs, carpet, furniture, clothes, shoes — they're all fair game for these little devils.
There are different reasons for the chewing, including too much energy, boredom, separation anxiety, and nervousness. If this is your breed of choice, keep a lot of rope, rawhide, and squeaky toys around and hope for the best.
Next: Hot diggety dog
These pups are known to drool. | cynoclub/Getty Images
Average lifetime destruction bill: $585.71
According to the website
Angara Pear Emerald Solitaire Ring With Trio Diamond Accents Cmp4x
, mastiffs love to dig. And not necessarily in the yard. These dogs need plenty of exercise and play to prevent them from becoming bored and destructive. In addition, the breed is known for drooling, which in and of itself can destroy stuff. Last? They're prone to gassiness.
Fighting Lyons is a dynamic sports centre in Melbourne with access to highly decorated and experienced coaching staff. Members can participate and be trained in a range of different sports, including Taekwondo, Acrobatics, Boxing, Trampolining, general Fitness classes, Personal training and Ninja training.
(03) 9374 2440
70A Keilor Rd, Essendon North VIC 3041


text:
A strongly felt earthquake has rolled across Los Angeles.
The U.S. Geological Survey says the preliminary magnitude was magnitude 4.7 and was centered 5 miles north-northwest of the city's Westwood neighborhood.
The 6:25 a.m. Monday quake occurred at a depth of about 5 miles.
The Los Angeles Fire Department has received no immediate reports of damage.


text:
Find out about adopting or fostering children in care, including fostering to adopt and the adoption process.
Choosing to adopt or foster a child in care is likely to be one of the most challenging, but rewarding, decisions you'll ever make.
There are around 4,000 children in England who need to be adopted every year, and many more who need fostering. According to adoption charity CoramBAAF, the average age at adoption in 2014-2015 was three years and three months.
Some children will have siblings, but the decision to keep siblings together is based on a balanced assessment of each child's needs.
Some will have been abused or neglected in early childhood, or have specific medical problems or a learning disability.
Most have had unsettled lives and have been taken into care. They may have experienced some form of trauma including loss and separation, even when adopted shortly after birth.
Their past experiences may have taught them strategies for surviving in a dangerous world and encouraged a confused view of family life and relationships.
While a loving and supportive home is essential for these children, the role of an adoptive parent is also to help identify and access the services and treatments they may need, both short term and long term, to improve their chances in life.
The first step towards adopting a child is to contact your local authority's adoption team or a voluntary adoption agency, see Consortium of Voluntary Adoption Agencies' (CVAA) to ask for information and procedures. You can find an adoption agency near you through First4Adoption.
In July 2013, the government launched a new two-part adoption process so that prospective adopters can be approved to adopt a child more quickly. Adoption agencies are now expected to assess and prepare prospective adopters to apply to adopt within six months – unless you, as a prospective adopter, feel you need more time.
During the first part, which should take two months, prospective adopters will learn about what is involved in adopting a child and adoption agencies will obtain references for each applicant.
The second part, which should take four months, involves more intensive assessment and preparation of prospective adopters so that they are ready to apply for approval to adopt a child.
At the end of the second stage, prospective adopters should know if they have been approved to adopt. The adoption agency will then be able to match them as quickly as possible with a child or sibling group who needs adopting, providing the adopters are happy with the proposed match.
Find out more about the adoption process at First4Adoption.
Sometimes there isn't an appropriate match with your family in your local area and so your agency will need to cast their net wider. There are several ways of expanding your search to find the right child or children for you, including:
If you have not been matched with a child within three months, your agency must place your details on the National Adoption Register. This register holds information on children waiting to be adopted throughout England and of approved prospective adopters who are available and able to meet the needs of different children. You can also refer yourself to the register three months after getting approval to adopt.
As part of the adoption process, you will need to think about what age range and possible disabilities you can manage, as well as the possibility of adopting a sibling group. You may find that your initial views will develop as part of the preparation and assessment process, and talking to other adopters can help to answer some of your questions. Adoption UK has an online community of adopters, which discusses a wide range of adoption issues.
The information on NHS Choices is aimed at adopters and prospective adopters, including foster carers who have been or are hoping to be approved as adopters. While many of the health issues are similar for children who are fostered to those who are adopted, the guidance for foster carers may be different.
If you are a foster carer looking for advice and support for a child in your care, or you want to find out more about fostering, you can call the confidential fostering advice service Fosterline on 0800 040 7675, 9am-5pm Monday-Friday.
CoramBAAF also has a lot of information and resources for foster carers or for people interested in fostering.
Fostering for Adoption is a recent initiative that aims to give a child a permanent home as early as possible. In Fostering for Adoption, the local authority places a child on a temporary basis with foster carers who are also approved as adopters, so that if the court later agrees that the child should be adopted the placement could become an adoptive placement.
Concurrent Planning is part of the Fostering for Adoption initiative. It is a fostering option for babies and young children under two in care who are likely to need adoption, but who still have a chance of being reunited with their birth family.
Concurrent carers foster the child while the courts decide whether or not they can return to their birth family. If the courts decide the child's parents cannot provide the security and care they need, and there are no alternative carers, the child will remain with their concurrent carer(s) and be adopted by them, so they should not face the same level of disruption as they might with traditional adoption.
For more information, visit the fostering options page on First4Adoption.
Read about your health and wellbeing as an adoptive parent, including your adoption medical.
Find out about some of the possible health issues faced by children who need adopting.
Find out what support you and your adopted child can expect to receive before, during and after the adoption process and placement.
Read Andrew's story about overcoming his IVF experiences and adopting his son.
Read Sally's story about the psychological challenges her two adopted children face.


text:
{{search.results.count}} results {{searchFilter()}} {{searchQuery()}}
{{search.results.count}} results {{searchFilter()}} {{searchQuery()}}
Enter a search term such as "mobile analytics" or browse our content using the filters above.
That's not only a poor Scrabble score but we also couldn't find any results matching
Check your spelling or try broadening your search.
This service is currently undergoing maintenance.
Please try again later.
Posts tagged with Mobile Ads
10 snazzy digital marketing stats from this week
We've got a fine roundup of digital stats for you this week, including news on mobile app install ads, supermarket click-through-rates, social buy buttons and brand disclosure.
Before we get down to business, don't forget to check out the Internet Statistics Compendium for more.
In-app advertising: One user's experience
Over the past few months our Internet Statistics Compendium has seen some increasingly detailed mobile advertising data hit its pages, thanks in part to some free-to-download research over at Kenshoo and IHS.
For today's post I want to reflect on some of these trends and relate them to some of my own recent experiences of mobile ads – particularly the ever-surprising world of in-app advertising.
Three is right to declare war on 'irrelevant and excessive mobile ads'
Just when you think things can't get any worse for the publishing industry, somebody goes and hammers another nail in its coffin.
Well, it's not quite as dramatic as that. But recent news from mobile network provider Three certainly got the ad industry talking over the weekend.
The network has announced that it will roll out ad blocking technology on its network after initially trialling it in Italy.
What is location-based advertising & why is it the next big thing?
66% of marketers believe location-based advertising is the 'most exciting' mobile opportunity for 2016, according to a recent IAB UK study I quoted in our digital marketing stats round-up.
This is a huge endorsement from the marketing community, but how many people really use this channel to its full potential?
For those still relatively new to the term, or for anyone wanting to refresh their knowledge, I've created this location-based advertising guide for you.
Five tips for successful mobile advertising in 2016
As 2015 draws to a close, it's a good time to reflect on "what worked" with mobile advertising this year and to summarize the successful strategies you should be looking at in 2016.
11 intriguing digital marketing stats we've seen this week
As a famous news anchor once said, "60% of the time, the weekly Econsultancy digital marketing stats round-up is engaging every time."
He was wrong, of course. 98% of people who've read this round-up say they now look forward to it more than Christmas, and the other 2% misunderstood the question and thought Christmas was a code word for stats round-up.
Mobile ad blocking & the challenge for publishers: The experts' view
The number of people blocking ads online is increasingly becoming a headache for the publishers that rely on them for revenue.
With ad blocking apps recently becoming the best-selling software in the App Store after the technology giant announced it would allow them on its latest operating system update iOS9, the concerns about mobile ad blocking in particular are growing even larger.
Rogue apps add to ad fraud concerns
Advertisers stressed out by ad fraud have a new source of concern to contend with: Rogue apps that could be running nearly a billion dollars worth of ads that aren't seen.
According to online ad fraud detection firm Forensiq, thousands of iOS, Android and Windows Mobile apps are running ads that aren't being displayed to users.
Should marketers worry about the social media stock slowdown?
Twitter, LinkedIn and Yelp saw shares of their stock take big tumbles last week.
The week prior, Facebook reported earnings that fell short of analyst expectations for revenue.
Is social media hitting a speed bump, and if so, should marketers be alarmed?
10 interesting internet marketing stats we've seen this week
Once again we round up some of the most interesting digital marketing statistics we've seen in the past seven days or so.
This week it includes mobile advertising, digital salaries, email benchmarks, Instagram, online grocery shopping and the World Cup.
For more internet marketing stats, see our Internet Statistics Compendium...
Don't let your mobile ads be unwelcome guests at the party
We're in the midst of a great migration to portable devices and the opportunity for marketers is immense.
It will be much tougher to cultivate a relationship with users than it was on the web, but if handled properly we'll find the perfect balance between the ultimate user experience and advertisers' agenda.
One thing marketers can all agree on: advertising makes the digital world go 'round. What's less a settled matter is how, exactly.
Rich media mobile ads are four times as effective as banner ads: report
Rich media mobile ads are up to four times as effective as standard banner ads in terms of clickthrough rate, according to a new report from Opera Mediaworks.
The study also found that in-app mobile ads are an average of 1.7x more effective than ads on the mobile web.
Rich media ads achieved a CTR of 1.53% when displayed in an app and 1.12% on the mobile web. In comparison, standard banner ads achieved CTRs of 0.39% and 0.32% respectively.


text:
LearntobeHealthy.org has everything needed to implement health education in the classroom. It houses a collection of web-based health science education activities with accompanying lesson plans, that can be utilized in the classroom, at health education centers, and at home.
Each online kit, or collection of activities, contains a variety of media and educational modalities tied to specific learning objectives and national standards.
Currently, this health education site contains topics that cover adolescence, nutrition, physical activity, dental health, the five senses, tobacco and inhalants - with many more health education activities on the way!
This site is best viewed using the newest Flash Player. Please update your Flash Player.
| Explore Kits
| Health Tips
| Health Resources
| Get Started
Educators & Families
| Teens
| Help
| Contact Us
| Privacy Policy
LearntobeHealthy.org is an online health education center that has been designed to help educators, teachers, parents, families and the community communicate physical and mental health science education concepts to students K-12 through health educational resources such as games, activities, and lesson plans. LearntobeHealthy.org's web-based kits meet many National and State Health, Science and Technology Education Standards and make health education fun.
© 2005-2018 Byrnes Health Education Center, Inc.


text:
1. What degrees does Nassau offer?
Nassau offers three degrees: the Associate in Arts (A.A.); the Associate in Science (A.S.); and the Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.). Each degree can be completed in approximately two years of full-time study. The College also offers a number of certificate programs in specific career-related areas (e.g. Web Design, Studio Recording Technology, Food Services Technology, Cybersecurity, Financial Markets, Construction Management). Most certificate programs can be completed in one year of full-time study.
2. How does one degree differ from another?
The Associate in Arts (A.A.) degree has a liberal arts and sciences emphasis and prepares students to transfer to a four-year college for further study in a liberal arts curriculum (e.g. English, Communications, Psychology, History, Foreign Languages).
The Associate in Science (A.S.) degree has a math, science, and/or professional emphasis and is intended primarily for students planning to transfer to a four-year college and earn a bachelor's degree in a math-, science-, or business-related curriculum. A.S. degree programs at Nassau offer an emphasis in Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Computer Science, Mathematics, Biology, Nursing, Photography, Health Studies, and other areas.
The Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree focuses on a specific career area (e.g. Fashion Buying and Merchandising, Hotel Technology Administration, Mortuary Science, Civil Engineering Technology) and prepares students to enter the workforce upon graduation or to transfer to a four-year college for further study.
More information about degree programs can be found in the online College Catalog ("Programs of Study") located on the NCC homepage (www.ncc.edu).
3. What exactly can I study at Nassau?
Nassau offers a wide range of degree options, including more than fifty different academic programs. You can find a complete list of programs in the online College Catalog ("Programs of Study"), located on the NCC homepage (www.ncc.edu).
4. How do I know what courses I need for a specific degree?
Degree requirements for each curriculum can be found in the online College Catalog (under "Programs of Study") on the NCC homepage (www.ncc.edu). You can also speak with an advisor about courses that are appropriate for your degree. Degree requirements generally fall into two categories: (a) required courses (specific classes you must take) and (b) electives (classes that you yourself choose).
5. How can I get an advisor?
If you are pursuing a liberal arts degree, you should speak with an advisor from the Academic Advisement Center (516.572.7436) or the Department of Student Personnel Services (516.572.7506). If you are pursuing a degree in a specific career area (Criminal Justice, Business Administration, Marketing, and so on), you should speak with a faculty member from that department.
6. If I want to be a full-time student, how many courses will I need to take?
To be a full-time student, you need to be enrolled for a minimum of twelve credits (or the equivalent number of hours) a semester. For most students, that means taking at least four courses.
7. What is meant by a credit?
A credit is a unit of study that is the equivalent of fifty minutes of class instruction and two hours of outside study each week. Except for remedial and other noncredit courses, all classes at Nassau carry a specific number of credits. Most courses carry three credits. Lab science courses, as well as some mathematics and computer classes, carry four credits.
8. What are remedial courses?
Remedial courses are classes designed to help students improve their skills in specific academic areas. Nassau offers remedial courses in English (ENG 001), Reading (RDG 001, 002, and 003), and Mathematics (MAT 001, 002, and 003). Other remedial courses include BEP 090, 091, 092, and 093. Remedial courses don't carry college credit, but they do count toward full-time attendance. Students are placed into remedial courses based on their placement tests, which assess skills in three areas: reading, writing, and mathematics.
9. If I have to take a remedial course, when should I take it?
The best time to take remedial classes is before you begin credit classes. Nassau offers remedial courses during the summer. While it's advisable to complete them during that time, you are not required to do so. However, you must then take that course (or courses) in your first semester of attendance.
10. What is the maximum number of credits I can take at one time?
New students are limited to sixteen credits (or their equivalent) in their first semester of study. Continuing students can ordinarily take up to seventeen credits (or their equivalent) in a semester.
11. How many credits do I need to graduate?
While the actual number of credits required for graduation varies slightly from one curriculum to another, most programs at Nassau require approximately 64 credits. For information about the number of credits required in a specific curriculum, speak with an academic advisor.
12. What average do I need to graduate?
To graduate from Nassau, you need a minimum average of "C" (grade-point average of 2.0). Keep in mind, however, that it's in your interest to do as well as you possibly can in your classes at Nassau. Many four-year institutions base admission--and financial aid--on the grades students have received at their previous colleges. Many employers also look at the grades students earned in college. The higher your overall average at Nassau, the better your prospects will be.
13. If I'm planning to study for a bachelor's degree at a four-year college, does it matter if I transfer before graduating from Nassau?
It makes sense to complete your associate's degree before transferring. By doing so, you will increase the likelihood that all of your credits will transfer to your next college or university. Most four-year schools routinely accept credits that are part of an associate's degree. Many four-year colleges and universities also offer scholarships and other financial aid to students holding associate's degrees. Such aid is not always available to students who have simply transferred with credits, but no associate's degree.
14. How long does a semester last?
A semester runs approximately fifteen weeks. At Nassau, the fall semester begins in early September and continues through the third week in December. The spring semester begins in mid-January and concludes in mid-May. In addition to the fall and spring semesters, the College offers a three-week session in January and three summer sessions.
15. How often do classes meet?
Most classes meet twice a week for 2 1/2 hours (1 1/4 hours per session). However, there are exceptions. Many lab sciences, for example, meet three times a week--twice for lectures and once for a lab. Some math courses and some remedial classes also meet three times a week. A small number of classes, such as studio art classes and NCC 101: The College Experience, meet once a week.
16. What is NCC 101?
NCC 101 is a college success seminar. Its primary goal is to help students make a good start in college, to succeed in their classes, and to get the most out of their college experience. The course provides information about Nassau, including academic and campus services, as well as instruction in important college skills (e.g. note taking, time management, test taking). The course carries one general elective credit. For more information about NCC 101, call 516.572.7464, ext. 0.
17. When do classes at Nassau meet?
Classes are scheduled at various times throughout the day and evening. They begin on weekdays as early as 6:30 a.m. and as late as 9:25 p.m. There are also classes available at various times (mornings and afternoons) on weekends.
18. Is it possible to take both day and evening classes in the same semester?
19. How will I know where classes meet?
Your class schedule, which you can locate and download through the MyNCC Portal (located on the NCC homepage---www.ncc.edu), will list the days, times, and locations of your classes.
20. What is the MyNCC Portal?
The MyNCC Portal provides access to a wide range of online campus services, such as email, registration, and student records. The link to the portal can be found on the NCC homepage (www.ncc.edu).
21. Does Nassau offer any online classes?
More than twenty-five academic departments offer online courses. Some classes are entirely online, while others combine online sessions with face-to-face class meetings. Nassau's Distance Education program (516.572.7883) also includes classes using radio and television programming.
22. Does Nassau offer any internships?
Internships--credit-bearing work opportunities--are available through a number of academic departments, including Accounting/Business Administration; Communications; Criminal Justice; English; Hospitality Business; Marketing/Retailing/Fashion; Psychology; and Sociology (Human Services). The Student Professional Development/Employer Services Office (516.572.7132) also has information about local businesses and agencies that offer internships.
23. Does Nassau offer any applied learning opportunities?
Yes. Several courses at NCC contain applied learning components. In addition, the Center for Service Learning (516.572.9775), located in the Student Services Center (Tower, Lower Level), offers students opportunities to participate in community service activities. Several student clubs and organizations on campus also sponsor campus and community service projects and invite student participation.
24. Does Nassau offer any international study opportunities?
Yes. The Office of International Education (516.572.7053) sponsors a number of opportunities for international study. You can choose short-term international study courses, offered during the summer or the January intersession, or semester or yearlong programs.
25. Does Nassau offer any honors courses?
Yes. NCC's Hnors program offers a series of enriched courses for students who meet the criteria and want to enhance their education. Students who have excelled in high school are eligible to participate; currently enrolled students who have a grade-point average of 3.4 may also apply. For more information, call 516.572.7194.
26. If I am planning to drive to campus, do I need a sticker for my car?
You need to register any vehicle (car, SUV, motorcycle, etc.) that you plan to drive to campus. Information about vehicle registration can be found on the College's homepage under "Vehicle Registration."
27. Does registering my car guarantee me a parking space?
No. However, the College's parking lots provide ample parking, so finding a space is seldom a problem. Most parking spaces on campus are available for student use. Keep in mind, however, that a small number of spaces are reserved for faculty and staff, as well as handicapped parking. It's important to pay attention to parking signs. Parking illegally on campus can result in your receiving a Nassau County summons, which can be very expensive.
28. Do any buses stop on campus?
Yes. Several NICE (Nassau Inter-County Express) buses make regular stops on campus. You can pick up bus schedules in the Public Safety Office (516.572.7100), the Information Services Center (Student Services Center - Tower, lower level; 516.572.7501), and the Office of Student Activities (College Center, Rm. 150; 516.572.7148). More information about routes and schedules can be found at http://www.nicebus.com.
29. Where can I eat on campus?
There are three food locations on campus. The food court, located in the College Center, serves breakfast foods, sandwiches, salads, pizza, hamburgers, and a selection of hot dishes. Two other services, the Marketplace (located opposite Cluster B) and Nassau Eatz (located in Building V), serve bagels, snacks, hot and cold drinks, and other items. Most campus buildings also have vending machines with snacks and drinks.
30. How will I know what books I will need for my classes?
Your professors will let you know what books are required, usually at the first or second class meeting.
31. Where can I buy books?
You can buy books, as well as other school supplies, in the campus bookstore. The bookstore carries new and (in some cases) used copies of all texts.
32. How much do textbooks cost?
Though prices of texts vary, books are, in general, expensive. If you are a full-time student, you can probably expect to pay about $300 for books and school supplies each semester. One way to reduce the cost of textbooks somewhat is to buy used books (books that have been resold to the bookstore by students). These sell for less money than new editions. Another way to save money is to explore renting texts from the bookstore. Also, the campus library has copies of many texts on reserve for student use.
33. What services and resources does Nassau offer for new students?
In addition to the college success seminar (see NCC 101 - question 16), the College holds an Orientation prior to the start of the fall and spring semesters. The Orientation program gives students an opportunity to learn about the College, tour the campus, meet other students, and learn academic success strategies. Nassau also encourages incoming students to participate in freshman learning communities (516.572.7464, ext. 25353), which are groups of related courses that give students the chance to work together, get to know each other, and have an enriched learning experience. Learning communities are part of Nassau's First Year Experience program.
34. What is the First Year Experience (FYE) program?
The First Year Experience program (516.572.7376) is a series of activities aimed at helping new students adjust to college, do well in their classes, and take part in campus life. FYE activities include a common reading (a book that's read in many classes and that serves as the basis for campus discussions and programs); a campus-wide day of service, which involves the student body in campus and community service projects; a series of workshops about academic success and personal growth; and a friendly and informative blog ("What's Up, NCC?"--http://www.whatsupncc.blogspot.com) and Twitter page (http://www.Twitter.com/fye_nassaucc) containing information about campus life and advice about college success. A major goal of FYE is to foster a spirit of community for all students.
35. Where can I go to find out about financial aid?
The College's Financial Aid Office (516.572.7396) is located in the Tower Building, third floor. The professional staff can provide information about various forms of financial aid, as well as assistance in completing applications.
36. Does Nassau have any campus jobs for students?
Yes. Many campus offices and departments hire students. If you are interested in working on campus, contact the College's Student Professional Development/ Employer Services Office (516.572.7132) in Nassau Hall. If you are eligible for the federal Work-Study program, you may also find a job on campus. For information about Work-Study opportunities, contact the Financial Aid Office (516.572.7396).
37. What tutoring services does Nassau provide?
There are a large number of academic help centers on campus. These include two writing centers, three math centers, and individual assistance in reading, foreign languages, natural sciences, accounting, art, music, and other subjects. Several departments, including English, Student Personnel Services, and the Library, also offer workshops aimed at helping students improve their writing, study, and research skills. The goal of all academic support services is to help students improve their skills and acquire a better understanding of material covered in their classes. Information about the College's help centers can be found on the College's homepage (www.ncc.edu).
38. Does Nassau have any computers for student use?
Yes. Computers are available in the Library, the College Center, Building G, the Student Lounge, and other locations on campus.
39. If I have a question or problem, can I speak with a counselor?
Absolutely. Nassau offers a range of counseling services. Whether you want to improve your study skills, make career decisions, resolve a personal concern, or select a four-year college to continue your education, counselors are available to assist you. For more information about counseling services, visit "Campus Services" on the College's homepage (ncc.edu). You can also call the Department of Student Personnel Services (516.572.7506), located in Nassau Hall.
40. What services does Nassau offer for students with disabilities?
The Center for Students with Disabilities (516.572.7241), located in the College Union, provides tutoring, counseling, and other support services for students with physical, psychiatric, and learning disabilities.
41. What services does Nassau provide for adult students?
The Adult Resource Center, located in Nassau Hall, (516.572-7141), has been established to help the College's mature student (25 years old and over) population. The Center's services include advisement and assistance with developing class schedules that meet students' individual needs..
42. What services does Nassau provide for military veterans?
The Center for Veterans Affairs (516.572.9775), located in the Student Services Center (Tower, lower level), helps military veterans obtain information about educational benefits and related services. The College also sponsors a Veterans' Club and a Veterans Resource Facility (365 Rice Circle) that provide opportunities for veterans to meet, socialize, and learn more about campus resources. More information about veterans' services can be found at http://www.ncc.edu/campusservices/veterans/.
43. What services does Nassau provide for international students?
The Office of International Student Affairs (516.572.7053), located in the Life Sciences Building, Rms. 141-149, provides assistance to non-immigrant students, including those who have been educated abroad, who hold temporary visas, or who are permanent legal residents of the United States. Another NCC program, LINCC (Language Immersion at NCC; 516.572.0165), provides basic and intermediate levels of English instruction.
44. Does Nassau have childcare services?
Yes. The Children's Greenhouse (516.572.7614) offers quality low-cost childcare to children of students and faculty. Fees for the Greenhouse's services are based on a sliding scale. Information about childcare at NCC can be found at here.
45. What if I am undecided about my area of study?
The Academic Advisement Center (516.572.7436), located in the Student Services Center (Tower, lower level), provides advice and guidance to students who have not yet chosen an area of study. In addition, the Career Counseling Center (516.572.7696), located in Nassau Hall, offers workshops aimed at helping students discover their academic and career interests. Both offices are very good resources.
46. Does Nassau offer any scholarships?
Yes. The College offers a range of scholarships for continuing and graduating students. Many scholarships are administered through the Scholarships and Student Aid Committee of the Academic Senate. Others are sponsored by various campus groups. Look for announcements about scholarships on the NCC homepage (www.ncc.edu/aboutncc/givetoncc/scholarships) as well as in the student newspaper, the Vignette. You can also find information about scholarships on campus bulletin boards.
47. Does Nassau have any student clubs?
There are more than one hundred clubs on campus. They range from student groups that are purely social and recreational to those that are largely career-oriented. Some clubs have an ethnic or religious focus, while others help students become better acquainted with important political and social issues. In addition, the College sponsors and supports several campus-wide organizations, including the Student Government Association, the campus newspaper (Vignette), the Programming Board, Nassau Concerts, the Student Organization of Latinos, and Haraya (African-American Students Organization).
48. If I want to join a club, how can I find out what is available?
The easiest way to learn about clubs is to attend the Activities Fair, which is held at the beginning of every semester and which will take place this fall on Thursday, Sept. 6 (11:30 a.m.--front of College CenterBuilding). Representatives of most clubs will be available at this event to tell you about their group's activities and to answer your questions. Another good resource is the Directory of Student Clubs and Organizations, which is available through the Office of Student Activities (516.572.7148) in the College Center. This publication contains descriptions of clubs and lists the locations of many club offices. In addition, the Vignette, the student newspaper, routinely runs announcements about club meetings and club-sponsored events. Announcements about club meetings and events can also be found on the NCC Facebook page (www.Facebook.com/NassauCommunityCollege); the First-Year Experience blog (www.whatsupncc.blogspot.com); and the First-Year Experience Twitter page (www.Twitter.com/fye_nassaucc).
49. Does Nassau have any athletic teams?
Yes. The College sponsors many intercollegiate teams--football, soccer (men's and women's), cross-country, track, baseball, softball, lacrosse (men's and women's), basketball (men's and women's), wrestling, bowling, tennis, golf, volleyball, and others. The College also has a large intramural athletic program for students who wish to compete, participate in a variety of sports, and stay in shape. Information about intercollegiate teams and intramural activities can be obtained from the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics (516.572.7522) and the Intramurals Office (516.572.7684). In addition, students can play a variety of games (pool, ping-pong, chess, and others) in the Lounge, located in the College Union.
50. Besides clubs and athletics, are there any other campus activities?
The College sponsors an array of cultural events--theatre productions, art gallery exhibits, concerts, poetry readings, and dance recitals. The College's Theatre/Dance Department (516.572.7508) sponsors several theatre productions each year. The Plaza Art Gallery (516.572.9699), part of the Art Department, features the work of students and faculty as well as off-campus artists. The Music Department (516.572-7447) holds several concerts a year, many featuring performances by student musicians. The English Department (516.572.7185) sponsors readings by well-known authors and supports the student literary magazine, Luna. In addition, the campus radio station (WHPC, 90.3 FM; 516.572.7438) offers students opportunities to gain experience in broadcasting and other aspects of radio. Last but certainly not least, the College's cultural program (516.572.7148) features guest lectures by well-known authors, artists, political figures, social activists, scientists, athletes, and business leaders. Most cultural events are free.
51. Once I have registered, is it possible to make changes in my schedule?
Yes. You can make changes prior to the start of the semester as well as in the drop/add period during the first week of classes.
52. Suppose I have questions between now and the first day of classes?
If you have questions about classes, financial aid, new student orientation, or other matters, check the College's homepage (ncc.edu), visit NCC's Facebook page (accessible through the NCC homepage - www.ncc.edu), or call the following numbers:
Academic Advisement 516.572.7436
Admissions 516.572.7345
Adult Resource Center 516.572.7141
Bursar 516.572.7326
Career Center 516.572.7696
Center for Educational/Retention Counseling 516.572.7141
Center for Students with Disabilities 516.572.7241
Children's Greenhouse (Childcare) 516.572.7614
Dean of Students 516.572.7376
Financial Aid 516.572.7396
First Year Experience 516.572.7376
Health Services Office 516.572-7123
Information Services 516.572.7501
International Education/International Student Affairs 516.572.7053
SPD Employer Services Office 516.572.7132
Learning Communities 516.572.7464, ext. 25353
MyNCC Help Desk 516.572.9980
NCC 101(College Success Seminar) 516.572.7464, ext. 0
New Student Orientation 516.572.7148
Office of Student Activities 516.572.7148
Placement Testing 516.572.7780
Public Safety 516.572.7100
Student Personnel Service 516.572.7506
Veterans Affairs 516.572.9775


text:
Whatever your interest may be, our robust undergraduate and
graduate programs will prepare you for success—academically and professionally.
As an English student at Northern Arizona University, you
will study with published, accessible faculty mentors who will encourage and
support you in your specific career goals.
Explore our website for information on our programs, student
resources, faculty, sponsored programs, and more.
If you have any remaining questions, don't
hesitate to contact our faculty and staff.
offer two undergraduate degrees, a minor, and many certificates—see which is
right for you.
more about our master's, doctoral, and certificate degrees and programs.
information on ENG 105, advising, student clubs, the writing center, and more.


text:
WIC Online Invoice Application Webinars
Target Audience:
This training is for the Local WIC Provider staff member who completes the monthly WIC Invoice.
Course Description:
This training offers an in-depth explanation of the WIC Invoice, Administrative Cost Report and Budget Adjustment.
Contact Trainer:
WIC Invoicing questions may be addressed to Laura Thompson, 573-526-7901, email@example.com.
WIC Invoicing System Webinars:
You may access the webinars by clicking on any of the links below. The webinar will start automatically and you need only to watch and listen. You may watch all or any sections you desire. You may repeat any section as needed.
Invoice Overview (2 mins.)
Accessing the Application (3 mins.)
Creating a New Invoice (2 mins.)
Invoice A (3 mins.)
Invoice B - Personnel (2 mins.)
Invoice B – Personnel Salaries (2 mins.)
Invoice B – Employee Benefits (1.5 mins.)
Invoice B – Total Expenses Table (1.5 mins.)
Invoice B – Personnel Pg. 2 (1 min.)
Invoice C – In-Kind Expenses (2.5 mins.)
Invoice D – In-Kind Personnel (3.5 mins.)
Invoice D – In-Kind Pg. 2 (1 min.)
Invoice E – Reclaim Personnel (3 mins.)
Invoice E – Reclaim Non-Personnel (1.5 mins.)
Special Fundings (4.5 mins.)
Submitting the Invoice (3 mins.)
Administrative Cost Report (ACR) (5 mins.)
ACR Caseload (1.5 mins.)
In-Kind ACR, Graphs, Printing (2.5 mins.)
Budget Adjustments (7 mins.)


text:
Confederate Motors is making some of the most intriguing and evocative custom motorcycles on the market right now, and the company's second-generation Confederate P51 Combat Fighter is no different.
Taking some cues from the first-generation Fighter, as well as a couple nods from the Confederate X132 Hellcat, the Confederate G2 P51 Combat Fighter not only encapsulates everything good about the Confederate Motors brand, but it's also Pierre Terblanche's last work at the Southern company, before heading to Royal Enfield.
Confederate says that the G2 P51 Combat Fighter draws inspiration from the "1960's rebel, anti-hero and the stripped, raw, chopper he rode." The custom certainly is sinister in its look, especially in the blacked-out version. Oh, did we mention is boasts over 200hp at the rear wheel?
Like all Confederate machines, these P51 Combat Fighters will be bespoke to each owner, of which there will be only 61 units made. MSRP for the blonde model is is $113,900 (30 units in total), while the brunette will cost you $119,500 (31 units to be produced). More photos and details after the jump.


text:
The Nobel Prize in Literature 1929 was awarded to Thomas Mann "principally for his great novel, Buddenbrooks, which has won steadily increased recognition as one of the classic works of contemporary literature".
Which Nobel Laureates are hidden within the maze of letters?
All you need to know about the Literature Prize!
Read about Alfred Nobel's Will and the Literature Prize.


text:
You May Regret Not Having a Look at This Dazzling Log Home
Log homes, log cabins and log chalets have always been a popular type of home, and its no wonder with all the amazing designs, styles, sizes and plans available to suit most anyone. If you love log homes, you'll want to take a look at this rustic and "Fabulous Log Home,"
A log house (or log home) is structurally identical to a log cabin (a house typically made from logs that have not been milled into conventional lumber). The term log cabin is not preferred by most contemporary builders, as it generally refers to a smaller, more rustic log house such as a hunting cabin in the woods, or a summer cottage. Log construction was the most common building technique in large regions of Sweden, Finland, Norway, the Baltic states and Russia, where straight and tall coniferous trees, such as pine and spruce, were readily available. It was also widely used for vernacular buildings in Eastern Central Europe, the Alps, the Balkans and parts of Asia, where similar climatic conditions were present. In the warmer and more westerly regions of Europe, where deciduous trees were more dominant, timber framing was favoured instead.
Some of the different types of log homes can include; handcrafted, which are typically made of logs that have been peeled, but essentially unchanged from their original appearance as trees; hewn logs, logs that are hewn by an axe to an oval, hexagonal, octagonal or rectangular section; sawn logs, logs that are sawn to a standard width, but with their original heights; milled (also known as machine profiled), made with a log house moulder, made with logs that have been run through a manufacturing process which then converts them into timbers which are consistent in size and appearance. Handcrafted log houses have been built for centuries in Scandinavia, Russia and Eastern Europe, and were typically built using only an axe and knife. The Scandinavian settlers of New Sweden brought the craft to North America in the early 18th century, where it was quickly adopted by other colonists and Native Americans. Possibly the oldest surviving log house in the United States is the C. A. Nothnagle Log House (circa 1640) in New Jersey.
Photo Gallery
Check out our YouTube Channel
If you liked this story, you may also like our YouTube channel, where we go off the grid and scout unique properties for sale
Subscribe on YouTube toThe Off Grid Scout for More Videos
Click the YouTube button to Subscribe for free


text:
If you're discovering UR just now and don't feel like wading through a 2007-era Blogger template, some of the more salient pieces are available as Kindle books, here. Start with the Open Letter or the Gentle Introduction.
If you're here because you clicked on one of those clickbait pieces and you're horrified, don't be afraid! All your conditioning is telling you to run very fast in the opposite direction. That's normal. It's a healthy instinct. Honestly, there's quite a solid case for taking the blue pill. It's a vitamin. It's good for you. Whatever is in that red pill, it's definitely not a vitamin.
And let's not just dismiss the idea that you're right. So is everyone else. So is the world. "All is for the best, in this the best of all possible worlds." Still... perhaps we could try a little test?
Say the word democracy. Notice how good it sounds. Everything democratic is good. A democratic meeting, a democratic policy, a democratic giraffe... if the adjective fits the noun at all, anything you paint with it comes out shiny and bright.
Now say the word politics. Notice how bad it sounds. This person is a politician. She's being so political. These dangerous proposals would politicize US foreign policy. Every use of the word is negative. Everything you paint with it comes out sordid and mean.
But... what is democracy without politics? Is there any such thing? If there is, doesn't it sound like something North Korea would come up with? Our higher form of democracy has transcended mere politics. Uh huh. Sure. I know where you're going with that.
As objective realities — structures of governance — aren't democracy and politics in fact... synonyms? But if they're the same word, how can they have opposite connotations? How can it be that everyone knows, obviously, of course, democracy is a good thing, but politics is a bad thing?
Anyway. They're just questions, Leon. If you feel like you have a good answer, great. Definitely go with that. I hope it's juicy and delicious.